Bark-camouflage
Guides
Lithophane
shoulder-knot moths
Lithophane is a genus of noctuid moths commonly known as shoulder-knots. Species are characterized by their autumn to winter flight periods and cryptic forewing patterning that provides bark-mimicking camouflage. The genus includes both univoltine species that overwinter as eggs and those with prolonged adult winter diapause. Several species have expanded their ranges in recent decades, facilitated by horticultural planting of introduced conifers.
Phaeoura quernaria
oak beauty, American Oak Beauty
Phaeoura quernaria, commonly known as the oak beauty or American Oak Beauty, is a geometrid moth native to eastern North America. The species is notable for its salt-and-pepper patterned wings that provide effective bark camouflage. It exhibits bivoltine or univoltine life cycles depending on latitude, with adults active from late winter through autumn. Larvae feed on various hardwood trees and the species overwinters as pupae.